Hearts boss aims to phase kids in gradually

JIM JEFFERIES today pledged to protect Hearts' prodigious youngsters against burnout by ensuring they are gradually phased into the first team throughout the next couple of seasons.

Concerned that teenagers like Craig Thomson and Scott Robinson played too many games last year as a consequence of injuries to more established players, Jefferies will err on the side of caution. "Some young boys got in due to injury problems here and the fact we were a striker or two short," he said. "David Templeton did ever so well towards the end of last season so he's one we're looking to bring on.

"Scott Robinson, for example, can still play under-19s. Sometimes they have been thrust in a bit too early because of injuries and are still a bit short in terms of playing regularly in the first team. He (Robinson] has a lot of potential. Maybe we're looking to play him in the right situations as opposed to just throwing him in and letting him find his feet. One or two have to be patient. Craig Thomson had a lot of games in the first team last year. It's great that a club like Hearts are getting youngsters in but a few of them are still a season or so away from making a major impact. They will play a part, though."

Hearts intend to farm several young players out on loan due to the absence of an SPL reserve league. Jefferies is seeking short-term moves for those who are now too old for under-19s.

Dylan McGowan and Michael Deland have had loans mooted with East Fife and Cowdenbeath respectively. "I'm hoping to do the same with another four or five," said Jefferies. "Conrad Balatoni and Jonny Stewart need games and there's another couple."